Once you've seen a Paso Fino move, you'll always recognize one! These beautiful, naturally gaited horses date back many centuries to Spain. They were influenced by the Andalusian, Barb, and Spanish Jennet. Selectively bred by plantation owners, they were highly prized for their endurance and their incredibly comfortable ride.

Paso Fino lovers claim that it is the smoothest ride in the world and their unique 4 beat gait is performed at a variety of speeds. The gait of these horses is an evenly spaced 4-beat lateral gait with each foot contacting the ground independently in a regular sequence at precise intervals creating a rapid, unbroken rhythm. Executed perfectly, the four hoof beats are absolutely even in both cadence and impact. There are different name for the gaits depending on the speed with which it is performed.

photo courtesy of Wilbanks Paints 'n' Pasos

photo courtesy of Wilbanks Paints 'n' Pasos

The "paso corto" is a moderate speed gait, great for riding down the trail, and the "paso largo" gait is a fast gait at the speed of a canter or slow gallop.

Read more about these wonderful horses at

The Paso Fino Horse Association Website